Improving Employment Outcomes Among Adolescents and Adults on the Autism Spectrum

Abstract

As the number of diagnosed cases of ASD increases, school professionals must consider not only efficacious teaching approaches for improving academic goals, but also what systems must be in place to address one of the most important jobs of the school systems: preparing capable citizens. For more than 160 years, schools have been tasked with preparing good citizens who are capable of contributing to society through work. Given the fact that schools have been required to provide appropriate educational programming to students with disabilities for decades and that this includes planning for the transition to adulthood, the staggeringly poor employment outcomes of individuals on the autism spectrum should be a cause for concern. The present article reviews the significant problem of unemployment as well as employment supports for individuals with ASD. These supports include both the natural supports (scaffolding to enhance success in obtaining and maintaining employment) as well as technological advances that may minimize ostracization in the workplace. Lastly, recommendations for school psychologists who seek to play a vital role in this critical area are offered.

Trends in Employment for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Review of the Research Literature

“…Employers' Attitudes It is important to consider employers' characteristics and how they interact with individuals with ASD, because these factors ultimately determine whether people get a job and how he/she sustains the position (Vornholt et al 2013;Wilczynski et al 2013). López and Keenan (2014) conducted a survey that demonstrated that "lack of appropriate understanding from employers and coworkers" is one of the biggest barriers to successful employment.…”

“…As a necessary component of adult life, employment is one of the most desirable achievements for every individual, including people with ASD, when we enter our adulthood (Bennett and Dukes 2013;Roux et al 2013;Wilczynski et al 2013. Successful employment increases an individual's social status and financial independence and maintains a person's physical and psychological health, thereby improving his/her quality of life (Fleming et al 2013;Gerhardt and Lainer 2011).…”

Employment and Vocational Skills Among Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Predictors, Impact, and Interventions

“…Supported employment represents an integrated model of employment where workers with disabilities are assisted throughout the employment process and work in community-based settings (Gottlieb et al 2010). Competitive employment involves people with disabilities working at an equivalent rate to those without disabilities, and research illustrates that between 6 and 10 % of individuals with ASD are competitively employed (Wilczynski et al 2013). Although these employment options exist, positions are limited and are typically directed toward individuals who are high functioning (Sonne 2009).…”

A component analysis of job interview training for young adults with autism spectrum disorder

“…In addition, their performance was maintained at follow-up. KEYWORDS autism spectrum disorder, behavioral skills training, InterviewStream©, job interview training 1 | INTRODUCTION paid less than their neurotypical peers (Wilczynski, Trammell, & Clarke, 2013). Individuals with ASD may present difficulties with a variety of behaviors related to social skills including eye contact, engaging in reciprocal conversation, and initiating or responding to another person's interactions.…”